Fenland construction site visits to combat modern slavery

Police have visited construction sites across Fenland and the county as a whole as part of efforts to combat modern slavery.

Officers were joined by representatives from Immigration Enforcement as they visited 10 sites in the county last week.

The action follows an increase nationally in the number of modern slavery cases being identified within the construction industry.

No victims of slavery were identified, but advice was given to both workers and site managers.

Officers asked people key questions about their working conditions, pay, accommodation and access to identification documents.

Whilst most construction companies are legitimate businesses, nationally the industry has become a focus due to an increasing number of cases of modern slavery being identified.

The action in Cambridgeshire was part of Operation Aidant, which is led by the National Crime Agency (NCA).

Signs of modern slavery relevant to the construction industry include people:

• seeming overly tired, withdrawn or avoiding eye contact
• having physical injury or untreated wounds
• appearing fearful or intimidated by management
• having a lack of protective equipment or skills for a task
• having movements controlled or excessively monitored
• working very long hours
• being fearful of handling payments

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Sloan said: “Slavery and exploitation within the construction industry is a relatively new focus for us, but it’s important we react to the national picture and identify any areas of concern in the county.

“Teaming up with partners to complete visits like these are an important part of our efforts to combat slavery and identify any potential victims or areas of concern.

“Clearly, the vast majority of construction companies are legitimate and pay their workers a fair wage. However, slavery can happen anywhere and so it’s important we keep an open mind.

“Victims of modern slavery often don’t see themselves as enslaved or they are so scared of those controlling them that they don’t see a way out.

“If you’re getting construction work completed on your home please take the time to familiarise yourself with the signs of slavery and report any concerns.”

For more information on the signs to look out for, or to make a report visit the police website’s dedicated page.